Iodine
Iodine is a broad-spectrum antiseptic and disinfectant used topically to prevent and treat infections in minor wounds, burns, and surgical sites. It is commonly formulated as povidone-iodine for skin preparation and wound care in healthcare and home settings. Its versatility against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa makes it a staple in both clinical and first-aid applications.
Iodine is a topical antiseptic used to prevent and treat infections in wounds and during medical procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- unclassified
- RxNorm
- unknown
- Generic
- Iodine
- Class
- atc-d08
- Brands
- Dairyland Brand Controlled Iodine Teat Dip, Udderdine, Defend II, Io-Blend, UdderBlend, Dermafive, Absorbine Veterinary Liniment, Barrier-Dyne, Della Soft, Triumph, West Dip, Bovadine, QuarterMate Concentrate, Quarter Mate, BovaPro
- Availability
- otc
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Half-life (h)
- 0
- Onset (min)
- 1
- Duration (h)
- 0
- Routes
- topical, oral
- Forms
- solution, tincture, spray, teat dip, gel, liniment
- Regions
- United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, Asia
- Monitoring
- thyroid function, iodine levels
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment and prevention of bacterial, viral, and fungal infections in minor cuts, scrapes, burns, and surgical wounds; skin preparation before medical procedures and surgeries; disinfection of medical equipment and surfaces.
Iodine penetrates microbial cell walls and disrupts protein structure and nucleic acid synthesis, causing rapid destruction of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Povidone-iodine releases free iodine slowly for sustained antimicrobial activity.
For external use only; avoid applying to large areas of burned or broken skin due to risk of systemic absorption. May cause skin irritation, discoloration, or allergic reactions in iodine-sensitive individuals. Do not use with other antiseptics or hydrogen peroxide. Store away from heat and light.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy